Computer Labs for the Blind

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In 2009, inABLE opened Kenya's first computer lab for the visually impaired at Thika Primary School for the Blind. The computers are installed with accessibility software such as text-to-speech screen readers and screen magnifier tools for students that retain partial sight. In addition, we have developed a unique curriclum to teach computer skills, using local concepts to explain abstract computer entities such as grids and cells.

This syllabus continues to be strengthened every month and will be made freely available for use by other organizations. We have also developed a training syllabus for our computer lab instructors to allow them to effectively teach the curriculum in a manner that is cognizant of the different special needs of their students. Access to the internet is provided free of charge by our partner Access Kenya.

In addition, the students have access to over 10,000 books courtesy of BookShare. With access to technology, the students at Thika Primary School for the Blind now have the whole world at their fingertips. In fact, during the 2010 World Cup the students had created an online blog where they discussed their favorite teams and players.

It is a new way of life for the students and their teachers. With just 30 computers in this initial school, our computer
program currently enrolled 100 students and 21 teachers. There is curiosity, enthusiasm, and excitement, but above
all, a new dignity presides; the lives of these students are being transformed, and they are much more confident about their future.

In 2011, we will continue to add more computers to the laboratory at the Thika Primary School for the Blind, plus, we will work to expand this unique opportunity to more of Kenya's schools for the visually impaired.

Computer Labs Opening Soon with YOUR Support:

• Thika Secondary School for the Blind, Thika
• Kibos Primary School for the Blind, Kisumu
• Kibos Secondary School for the Blind, Kisumu
• St Oda's Primary School for the Blind, Kisumu
• St Lucy's Primary School for the Blind, Meru
• St Lucy's High School for the Blind, Meru
• Likoni Primary School for the Blind, Mombasa
• St Francis Primary School for the Blind, Kapenguria